I am learning to be flexible and live a life of spontaneity. A few months back my friend asked me to join her on a trip to Maui. Normally you wouldn’t have to twist my arm but I was trying to recover financially from a year full of unexpected events. I needed a break. So I accepted the offer with one condition. The trip had to be low cost. Hawaii has never been cheap but I’m always up for a challenge.

Somehow I managed to find a flight for $296, which is unheard of because typically the flights start at around $600. Feeling like I completely scored, I had only worked out one part of this trip. Then I began to look for accommodations that were reasonably priced, on the beach with good amenities. It took some time but I was able to find a condo at a beachfront resort with all the fun stuff. The price was right in range and we were all set for accommodations.

A few days before the trip I reached out to my friend to find out how much I owed her for the rental car that she was to reserve. She informed me that she didn’t reserve one because she thought I was doing that too. We had our wires crossed up so I let her know that I would get one right away. Thankfully I found a car for less than $200 which was a huge steal.

Since we had a kitchen, we stopped at the store to pick up staples which allowed us to save money. Our resort had an oceanfront restaurant that had an amazing happy hour menu and prices. There were times that we shared a meal because we weren’t that hungry. Across the street from the resort was a cute eclectic restaurant with live music and reasonable prices.

One day we hung out by the pool relaxing and then decided to go for massages. Massage services in Hawaii can be pretty pricey but my friend had previously gone to a nail salon that offered massage. The price point was great and so were the services. The owner of the salon recommended a nearby restaurant with live music. We followed her recommendation and it ended up being so much fun. With a little liquid courage, when asked, I sang with the band.

The day before we departed we drove up to Haleakalā to catch the awesome sunset. On the way up the windy mountain road we went through the clouds. The temperature dropped at least thirty degrees and the air was so crisp. When we arrived at the top we could see the beautiful sun setting over the heavy layer of clouds. We got several pictures before dashing back to the warm car. The four hour drive was worth it because the views were absolutely stunning.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to travel to Maui. A lot of circumstances had to come together for this trip to happen. I had to remain flexible in the planning phase and during the vacation. In the end I learned that you can have fun when you say yes to the possibilities.

Regina H